Pilots train with JTACs and Estonian military

  • Published
  • By Capt. Denise Haeussler
  • 442d Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TAPA RANGE, Estonia --  The top of an 80 foot tower is not the most ideal place to spend the day if one is afraid of heights, but it is where some of the best training takes place, according to military members.

Air National Guard Joint Terminal Attack Controllers from the 146th Air Support Operations Squadron out of Oklahoma City, Okla., trained with Estonian military members on close air support using A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 303d Fighter Squadron, 442d Fighter Wing from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., at Tapa Range in Estonia Aug. 31.

The training is part of Operation Atlantic Resolve where the U.S. is demonstrating its continued commitment to collective security through a series of action designed to reassure NATO allies and partners of America's dedication to ensuring peace and stability in the region.

"Training alongside the Estonians is helping to sharpen the tools they already have, and they are learning skills they can add to their tool bag," said Master Sgt. Larry Mansel, a JTAC with the 146th ASOS. "We are teaching different tactics to employ the aircraft to get the best effects."

Mansel said the U.S. is able to see what the Estonians do here and how they train.  He said they are able to learn from each other and the Estonians teach the Americans things they would not think of and vice versa.

"Even though the Estonian Air Force is small and they are in the baby steps of running their program, we are here to help them and strengthen our relationship so we can continue training with them," said Mansel. "The U.S. has had JTACs since Vietnam and we share all the processes and procedures we are able to with the Estonians.  It helps to strengthen our partnership."

"We are learning how to work with American A-10s at Tapa range," said Master Sgt. Siim Lindmaa of the Estonian Air Force. "Working and training with the American military helps us to improve our techniques.  We learn cross training from each other."

Operation Atlantic Resolve is an on-going exercise and the 442d FW is involved for approximately three weeks.